They lifted the protesting equestrian to the floor and put on her outer garments while the late steed resumed an upright position and dusted his knees.
"A very good child," he observed. "A very intelligent child. She does Miss Merriam great credit."
"She's growing splendidly," replied Ethel Brown.
"Too bad she can't continue under her care. Too bad."
"Can't continue under her care!" repeated the Ethels in unison. "Why can't she? What do you mean?"
"Why, on account of Miss Merriam's leaving. Of course you know. I hope I haven't betrayed any confidence."
"Miss Merriam's leaving!" exclaimed the Ethels as one girl.
"We don't know anything about it!"
"Where is she going?"
"When is she going?"